Full Notification

“FATAL HIT AND RUN TRAFFIC COLLISION IN NORTHEAST AREA”

Los Angeles- On October 24, 2017, at approximately 5:50 a.m., a fatal hit and run traffic collision occurred on Avenue 54 and York Blvd in Northeast Area. The collision occurred when a male pedestrian, approximately 70 years old, was crossing Avenue 54 at a marked crosswalk and was struck and dragged by the driver of a 2004 Chevy Trailblazer traveling southbound on Avenue 54. The driver in the Trailblazer stopped briefly then parked the vehicle a short distance from the scene. He then fled the scene without identifying himself or rendering aid to the fallen victim.

The victim was transported to Huntington Memorial Hospital in critical condition by paramedics from the Los Angeles City Fire Department. Despite lifesaving efforts, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead a short time after his arrival. The identity of the victim has not been released pending notification of his next of kin.

Detectives from Central Traffic Division responded to the scene and canvassed the area for witnesses and video surveillance cameras. As a result, the detectives located and detained a person of interest. He was transported to Central Traffic Division for questioning.

The cause of the collision is still under investigation and is being investigated by detectives from Central Traffic Division. Anyone with information is asked to contact the LAPD Central Traffic Division Detectives at (213) 833-3713 or Detective Calvin Dehesa at (213) 486-0750 or Detective Felix Padilla at (213) 486-0753. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.